therapies for rad sibs
Common therapies families are using to help their neurotypical child heal from the trauma inflicted by a child with RAD.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) involves attention to three time periods: the past, present, and future. Focus is given to past disturbing memories and related events. Also, it is given to current situations that cause distress, and to developing the skills and attitudes needed for positive future actions. With EMDR therapy, disturbing memories and related events are addressed using an eight-phase treatment approach. Eye movements are used during one part of the session.
Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback changes the way the brain processes information. It is a research-supported non-invasive treatment to sharpen attention, relieve anxiety, enhance mood, and improve learning and behavior. Neurofeedback makes use of the brain’s natural capacity to change by reshaping brain networks. All neurofeedback methods include EEG sensors that monitor your brainwaves, and a computer to send feedback back to you. There are different ways to receive this feedback. It can involve playing a game, listening to music, or watching a video.
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT)
Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy or counselling that aims at addressing the needs of children and adolescents with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other difficulties related to traumatic life events. The goal of TF-CBT is to provide psychoeducation to both the child and the non-offending caregivers and help them to identify and cope with emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Research has shown TF-CBT to be effective in treating childhood PTSD and with children who have experienced traumatic events.
BreathING and Heart Rhythm TECHNIQUES
Traumatic experiences dysregulate the Autonomic Nervous System resulting in anxiety, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts and images, hypervigilance, sleep disturbances, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, and attention problems.
Learning to change your breathing to regulate your heart rhythm can improve these symptoms. When the heart and brain are well-coordinated it results in increased synchronization and efficiency in the physiological, cognitive, and emotional systems of the body.
RAD Sibs
Supporting Siblings of Children with RAD through community, validation, and awareness.
The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.